27030, Mount Airy, North Carolina Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 27030, Mount Airy, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.18 percent of the residents in 27030 has some form of health insurance. 41.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.69 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 27030 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,728 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27030. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,668 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 694 health care providers accessible to residents in 27030, Mount Airy, North Carolina.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Airy, NC (ZIP Code 27030)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care within Mount Airy, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27030) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the available resources, focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care offered, and the integration of supportive services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering the specific needs of patients in this community. This score isn't a single number but a synthesis of various factors, reflecting the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in addressing prostate cancer.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Mount Airy, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, a lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally indicates better access. The analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 27030 ZIP code, taking into account their specialties and patient load. Further investigation into the age and experience of these physicians is important, as seasoned practitioners often possess a deeper understanding of chronic disease management, including prostate cancer.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to national guidelines for prostate cancer screening and early detection. Do these practices routinely offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing? Do they provide comprehensive patient education about risk factors and symptoms? Furthermore, the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are essential. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, ensuring seamless care coordination. The analysis will assess the adoption rate of EHRs and the degree to which they are utilized to streamline patient care.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The presence of urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists within or near the 27030 ZIP code is a key indicator of the community's ability to manage prostate cancer cases. The analysis will identify the number of specialists practicing in the area, their training, and their experience in treating prostate cancer. Furthermore, proximity to larger medical centers offering advanced treatments, such as robotic surgery and advanced radiation therapy, will be considered. Travel time and transportation options for patients needing specialized care are also essential factors.

Certain practices stand out in the Mount Airy area. These practices may have a demonstrated commitment to patient education, employing dedicated nurse navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. They may also offer support groups or educational workshops to empower patients and their families. Some practices may be actively involved in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. The analysis will identify and highlight these standout practices, recognizing their contributions to the community's healthcare landscape.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on prostate cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for patients in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices in Mount Airy utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices offering virtual consultations can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce travel burdens. The availability of telehealth platforms and the ease of use for patients are important considerations.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, an essential aspect of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, in the Mount Airy area. Are these resources readily accessible, and do they have experience working with patients undergoing cancer treatment? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial. Practices that proactively address the psychological needs of patients, either through in-house counselors or referrals to external resources, will receive a higher score.

The availability of support services, such as physical therapy, nutrition counseling, and support groups, also contributes to a positive patient experience. These services can help patients manage side effects, improve their quality of life, and navigate the challenges of cancer treatment. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources and the extent to which they are integrated into the care pathway. Practices that offer comprehensive support services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for Mount Airy (27030) is not merely a reflection of the availability of medical professionals. It is a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem, considering factors such as access to primary care, specialist availability, the quality of care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and support services. The score will be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of prostate cancer care in Mount Airy. To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the location of physicians, specialist availability, and access to support services, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome.